LITTER is the scourge of Bolton's streets.

In this country many people seem to have no pride in their local environment and do not care what they throw on the floor. So it is good news that a pioneering scheme in Bolton has taken a top national anti-littering award against stiff opposition from other authorities.

Council enforcement officers sought out young people seen dropping litter and also asked schools to identify litter louts through CCTV footage.

Culprits were then issued a £50 fixed penalty which was waived if the parents agreed to their child being given a final warning.

If they are caught a second time they are asked to pay the fine and a third offence lands them in court.

What is really need is a zero tolerance policy where even minor breaches of the law are not tolerated.

That way we could begin to instil respect for the environment and for the law into people of all ages - not just juveniles.